Fire chiefs urge residents to remain vigilant this fall when it comes to wildfire prevention

“Never on pause” – that’s how one fire official on Wednesday described the new normal and how residents should always be prepared when it comes to the threat of a wildfire.

“What once was a fire season has now become a fire year,” said Fire Chief Tony Mecham of CalFire San Diego and San Diego County Fire. “With historically low live fuel moisture levels across the county, we urge residents to remain vigilant, with preparation and awareness never on pause.”

Mecham, along with other fire chiefs, Rep. Scott Peters and San Diego Gas & Electric leaders, gathered Wednesday at a press conference to remind San Diego County of what officials are doing to prepare for the rising fire threat as the fall’s typically hot, dry and windy conditions take hold.

They also showcased wildfire response technology and asked agencies locally and on the state and federal level to continue to work together on issues related to preventing and battling major fires.

“Preparedness is our greatest defense against wildfire,” said Scott Crider, president of SDG&E. “We’re investing in advanced technology and expanding our wildfire prevention efforts to protect the region from devastating fires. True resilience comes from partnership – working hand-in-hand with local emergency responders, agencies and customers to stay ready and keep each other safe.”

The meeting took place in SDG&E’s Emergency Operations Center, where the utility’s Wildfire and Climate Resilience Center features wall-to-wall monitors displaying live fire-weather maps, virtual wildfire simulation technology, AI-powered forecast models and other real-time preparedness resources.

More than 6,800 fires already have burned 520,000 acres across the state this year, with the most devastating wildfires taking place in Los Angeles in January. Several fires are active now in Northern and Central California.

The San Diego Fire-Rescue Department is one example of an agency that is acquiring more resources for any battles that may come, including a new firefighting helicopter.

“In San Diego, wildfires aren’t a matter of if; they are a matter of when,” said Chief Robert Logan. “Together, we can all do our part to be ready and resilient. Have a go-bag, know your evacuation routes and talk with your loved ones about your emergency plan.”

Peters, D-San Diego, said he is trying to get Californians the federal resources needed to fight fires.

“I’m working to provide real solutions to address the frequency and severity of wildfires, including advancing my Fix Our Forests Act and Save Our Sequoias Act,” Peters said. “While I push to provide the relief we desperately need, San Diegans should utilize local resources to make their homes more fire resistant, create an evacuation plan and stay up to date with emergency guidance.”

The groups also encouraged the use of 2-1-1 San Diego, which provides 24/7 access to health, housing and disaster assistance.

“In times of crisis, we make connections to provide up-to-date information on power shutoffs, emergency shelters and recovery resources,” said William York, president and CEO of 211 San Diego. “Whether it’s a regional or local crisis or an everyday struggle, 211 is San Diegans helping San Diegans.”

To receive alerts about Public Safety Power Shutoff updates, fire weather conditions, outage maps and safety tips, visit SDG&E’s alerts page online.